Super Eagles Stage Training Boycott Over Unpaid Bonuses Ahead of World Cup Qualifier

 In a dramatic development that threatens Nigeria's 2026 FIFA World Cup qualification hopes, the entire Super Eagles squad and technical officials boycotted their final training session on Tuesday in protest over unpaid allowances and bonuses.

The boycott comes just 48 hours before Nigeria's crucial World Cup playoff semi-final against Gabon, scheduled for Thursday in Rabat.

According to team insiders, the players are demanding payment of outstanding bonuses dating back to the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations and subsequent qualifying matches. The current dispute also involves winning bonuses for the ongoing playoff matches, with players requesting $15,000 per match while the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has offered $10,000.

"We stand united in our demand for what we are owed," one senior player, who requested anonymity, told reporters. "We cannot focus on a must-win match when basic financial agreements remain unfulfilled."

The bonus dispute appears to be the culmination of growing dissatisfaction within the team camp. Earlier this week, midfielder Alex Iwobi posted a viral video that fans interpreted as highlighting substandard accommodation, though the player later clarified he wasn't lodging a formal complaint.

Sources also indicate that coach Eric Chelle has faced delays in receiving his own salary, suggesting wider financial management issues within the NFF.

This is not the first time bonus disputes have disrupted Nigeria's World Cup campaign. The Super Eagles experienced a similar boycott during the 2014 World Cup, which many believe contributed to their early exit from the tournament.

With Thursday's match being a must-win encounter, the training boycott represents a significant disruption to Nigeria's preparations. Team officials remain in emergency meetings with NFF representatives, attempting to resolve the crisis before the crucial fixture.

The Nigeria Football Federation has yet to issue an official statement on the matter. However, team representatives confirmed that "discussions are ongoing" and expressed hope for a "quick resolution."

The eyes of Nigerian football fans worldwide remain fixed on Rabat, awaiting news of whether their national team will take to the training field ahead of the most important match of their qualifying campaign